Tesla on Wednesday reported a wider second-quarter loss than analysts had expected, but expects to be profitable later this year as it ramps up production of its Model 3 sedan.

The company reported an adjusted loss per share of $US3.06 (-$US2.90 expected), while revenues topped estimates at $US4 billion ($US3.97 billion forecast).

The results were highly anticipated, following an eventful quarter for the electric-car and solar-panel maker.

Tesla recently pushed back the delivery timelines for new orders of two of three versions of its Model 3 sedan. Investors and analysts have been interested in any updates on the pace of production of the mass-market cars, and whether Tesla may need to raise additional capital even after CEO Elon Musk said otherwise.

Tesla said it hit a weekly production rate of 5,000 Model 3s “multiple times” in July, and aims to increase that to 10,000 “as fast as we can.” The electric-car maker said it expects to produce 50,000 to 55,000 Model 3s in the third quarter.

Tesla reported a negative free cash flow of $US739 million, smaller than analysts had forecast, and less than the $US1.05 billion burn in Q1.

“Going forward, we believe Tesla can achieve sustained quarterly profits, absent a severe force majeure or economic downturn, while continuing to grow at a rapid pace,” the company said.

Tesla’s stock fell 3% immediately after the release before rebounding to gain as much as 3.6%. It fell 3% this year through the market close on Wednesday.